Your college years are all about chasing dreams, joyous moments, and freedom. They’re also about mess-ups, downfalls, confusion, and uncertainty. In the words of Ms. Taylor Swift: we’re happy, free, confused, and lonely at the same time. With so many different emotions and experiences taking place, it’s easy to lose sight of who you are and what you’re capable of.

So, I’m here to tell you that you need to be your own hype woman during this journey. Show yourself who’s boss and that you own these years, wild as they may be. To help you out, I’ve made a list of five tips to fall back on when you need a boost, because it’s no one’s job to believe in you but yourself.

Know your worth

“You have what it takes to be a victorious, independent, fearless woman.” – Tyra Banks

To be your own hype woman, you need to see your value. Embrace your beauty and live in confidence. Hone your determination and use it to propel forward. Know you are worthy of accomplishing everything you’ve ever wanted to.

You might encounter people throughout your college career that will say you aren’t good enough, that you’re not capable of a task, or that you’re making a mistake. But those opinions don’t define you, because your worth comes from no one but yourself. When you understand that, you stop living for others and start seeing the value you possess.

Hustle hard

“I didn’t get there by wishing for it or hoping for it, but by working for it.” Estée Lauder

So, you know your worth, but that’s only part of the responsibility when it comes to acting as your own hype woman. Now, you have to motivate yourself to turn that worth into work!

Think of person who is your biggest inspiration. Got it? Okay, so she’s probably you’re inspo because she’s killing the game. Now it’s your turn. Whatever your goal is — to be a CEO or to wake up each morning feeling confident — take the actions that will get you there. It’s all about putting your capabilities and strengths to the test. Hustling hard might look like finding a mentor, putting your mental health first, or gathering experience for where you’re headed. It all depends on what you’re after. But no matter what, be your biggest fan and don’t give up on yourself.

Take time to rest

“Sometimes I give myself a break. So I will retreat a moment from the fray, just to breathe.” – Michelle Obama

You read that right. Former First Lady Michelle Obama takes breaks, and you definitely should too. One of the most important aspects of being your own hype woman is advocating for yourself. That means scheduling in some you-time. If you skip out on this vital responsibility, you may be left with burnout.

Remember to take a step back and have some fun. Dive in to a nurturing hobby you’ve always wanted to try — like calligraphy, reading that new book, or hiking. Maybe cook up some brunch and let your soul catch up to your body. Whatever you choose to do, take the time to rest and applaud your hard work. Be grateful for what you’ve accomplished and reward yourself with leisure.

Block out the noise

“I learned not to let outside opinions establish the value I place on my own life choices.” – Taylor Swift

Even if you were to do everything right and never made a single mistake, critics will still have something to say. Putting in the hours? Well, you’re just a workaholic. Resting? Come on now, you’re being lazy. Body nourished and feeling healthy? You’re putting on weight.

To be the best hype woman you can be, you need to tune people out. Prioritize what you genuinely think is good for you. Don’t let others make your decisions. If you do, you will never be satisfied. When the noise gets too loud, remind yourself why you’re following this path. Return to the beginning and evoke those reasons and moments that propelled you toward your objective in the first place. Or, throw on some headphones, play “Shake It Off” and literally block out the noise.

I’m not saying to ignore everyone’s advice — because some people genuinely have your best interest in mind. But use discernment to know what’s constructive and when you need to shake it off.

Be kind to yourself

“I remind myself to be kind to myself, and as slightly ridiculous as it may sound, to treat myself in the same gentle way I’d want to treat a daughter of mine. It really helps.” – Emma Stone

I wish I could say that success and confidence make all the stars align, but that’s not true. You may get down. You may mess up. You may still fail. And that’s more than okay! That means you put yourself out there and you went for it. Remind yourself of where you were and where you are. Redirect any negative thoughts to those that lift your spirits, fill you with confidence, and instill perseverance. Give yourself endless chances.

Be kind to yourself because you’re the one who’s been putting in the work. That’s all you, and it’s something to be proud of. Just enjoy the journey, because this is the story you tell when you finally get to where you’ve been trying to go.

How to Be Your Own Hype Woman